Not quite. They’re often mentioned together, but they work in different ways. Retinal is a vitamin A derivative. Once it’s in the skin, it converts into retinoic acid, the active form that signals skin cells to renew faster and supports collagen production. That’s why it’s so well known for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and refining uneven skin tone, and why it converts roughly 11 times faster than retinol.
NAD+ is a different kind of ingredient. It’s a coenzyme your cells already use for energy metabolism and everyday repair, and its natural levels decline with age. In skincare, NAD+-related ingredients are generally used to support skin’s own cellular processes, giving aging-looking skin a boost in vitality and glow, rather than to directly speed up cell turnover the way a retinoid does. Research on NAD+ in topical skincare is still newer than the decades of evidence behind retinal, so it’s best seen as a supportive ingredient rather than a replacement.
That’s why the two aren’t competitors. Retinal works on the visible signs of aging through renewal and collagen support, while NAD+ supports the skin’s cellular energy and overall resilience. Used together as part of a night time skincare routine, they can complement each other, especially in areas like the delicate eye zone, where you want results without piling on irritation. As with any retinal product, start slowly, a few nights a week, and wear sunscreen every morning.
Wondering where to start? Take a look at KSECRET SEOUL1988 Retinal Eye Patch with NAD, or try the KSECRET SEOUL1988 Retinal Eye Duo: Eye Cream & Patches for a gentle way to bring retinal into your eye care routine.